(Dahlia 'Bed Head') DAL-ee-ah Genus:  Dahlia

'Bed Head'  is a tall plant with 4-inch-wide salmon-colored blooms with an unusually tangled appearance. It flowers less abundantly than many other dahlias, but is striking nonetheless. 'Bed Head' is a lush grower that benefits from strong staking. Plant it at the back of the border, and show it off as a cut flower in a vase. -Alastair Gunn, Dahlias that deliver, Fine Gardening issue #121

Noteworthy Characteristics: 

Salmon-colored, unusual blooms on a 5-foot-tall plant.

Care: 

Provide full sun, except in the South, where some shade is preferred, and well-drained soil. Pinching off the first flower bud promotes a bushier plant. Use strong stakes, placing the first one into the hole at planting time. Deadhead regularly.

Propagation: 

Division in spring is preferred. Use a sharp knife to sever tubers ensuring that each division has at least one eye.

Problems: 

Slugs, snails, rabbits, earwigs, aphids.

Overview

Height 3 ft. to 6 ft. Growth Habit Clumps Light Full Sun to Part Shade Moisture Medium Moisture Maintenance High Characteristics Showy Flowers Bloom Time Early Fall, Early Summer, Fall, Late Summer, Summer Flower Color Orange, Salmon Uses Beds and Borders, Cut Flower Style Cottage Garden, Formal Garden Seasonal Interest Summer Interest Type Perennials